The Bruins are now down to one NHL preseason game left after they lost at Washington, 3-2, tonight.

Several players trying to make the opening-night roster got to strut their stuff in D.C., include rookie defenseman Matt Bartkowski (two assists, plus-2 rating).

Brad Marchand was his usual pesky self and he scored his first preseason goal, while Providence-bound Jeremy Reich also lit the lamp. Alexander Ovechkin made his exhibition debut and recorded two assists for the Capitals.

It was a long night for hopeful Zach Hamill at the faceoff dots, as he won just three of 11 draws. He also failed to muster a shot on goal. Michael Ryder did not register a shot on net, although he attempted six shots that were either blocked or missed the target.

Defenseman Mark Stuart was minus-2 on the evening. Shawn Thornton accounted for himself well in a lengthy bout with D.J. King, as Thornton rallied to earn a draw.

The Bruins will finish up their pre-European portion of the preseason schedule Wednesday night against Washington at TD Garden.

Maybe Ryder will be on that bus to Providence after all. I have been hoping for it and without a shot to his credit, he has to be better tomorrow night. It would be nice if we sent him to the AHL and kept two real forwards from among our prospects. And I would hope that waivers would get rid of Ryder’s sorry ass.